Former Maker Studios exec hired as president of Endemol Beyond USA

Will Keenan has been hired as president of Endemol Beyond USA, the division charged with building out a global video content network backed by the production juggernaut’s $40 million investment.

Keenan comes from Maker Studios, where as VP of vertical development and network programming he was instrumental in luring top talent to one of the biggest multichannel networks operating on YouTube. In an interesting twist, Maker itself is led by Ynon Kreiz, who previously led Endemol as CEO before stepping down in May.

Keenan is expected to bring talent to Endemol’s digital efforts, some of which could be incubated for TV programming, in addition to making strategic acquisitions and investments.

“In this new role, I am looking forward to leading a first-of-its-kind premium channel network venture and a digital dream team that will transform the way digital content is experienced and delivered,” said Keenan who will report to Cris Abrego and Charlie Corwin, co-CEOs and chairmen of Endemol North America.

Endemol Beyond will create a premium network of connected international and local channels across platforms including YouTube, Yahoo, AOL, MSNand Dailymotion. Firm will invest in “high-end original productions,” with channels themed by genres including comedy, entertainment, fashion and film. Endemol said it will acquire third-party programming as well.